Also called · dog eating grass · cat grass
What it looks like
- Grazes on walks
- Pulls leaves off houseplants
- Vomits after eating grass
Why it happens
It is normal behaviour
Dogs are carnivores with a strong omnivorous streak, and their wild relatives regularly ate plant material. On a complete diet there is no nutritional requirement for plants, and the assumption is that they eat it for taste and texture.
The question is not settled
It is said to help expel hairballs, but the real cause has not been established. That it is normal behaviour is broadly agreed.
What to do
You generally do not need to stop it
It is normal behaviour, so safe grass can be left alone. For cats, providing safe cat grass is if anything recommended.
Check what they are eating is safe
The issue is the plant, not the behaviour. Check whether the verge has been sprayed, and whether your houseplants are toxic.
Watch out for
Allium plants such as onion, and some houseplants, cause poisoning. Take care that they are not eaten by mistake.
See a vet if
Repeated vomiting after eating grass
Signs a toxic plant was eaten — go immediately
Common questions
On a complete diet there is no nutritional requirement for plants. Taste and texture are the presumed reasons.
Related behaviors
Was this useful?
General behaviour and nutrition information. It does not replace diagnosis or prescription. Similar behaviour does not always have the same cause, and the cause is not necessarily diet or environment — have a vet rule out illness first, and consult a behaviour specialist where needed.